New research from the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has reported an increase in the number of people playing cricket across the country for the third successive year.

According to an annual survey of the national governing body's Focus Clubs, there has been a 15 per cent increase in participation during 2009, following a 24 per cent and 27 per cent increase in 2008 and 2007 respectively. The number of people participating in disability cricket has increased by two thirds in the last year, while the Sky Sports Coach Education Programme has contributed towards a 14 per cent increase in qualified cricket coaches.

ECB chief executive David Collier said: "For cricket to be able to satisfy this increase in demand, it's essential we continue to invest in building and renovating much needed pavilions, pitches, and practice facilities. "Without this continued level of investment there is no doubt we will not be able to cater for the increased number of children who are choosing to play cricket."

The survey included all of the 1,079 ECB Focus Clubs across the country.